Ben Heneghan could be nearing an exit from Chester FC and heading for the Football League.
The defender has been offered a new contract to keep him at the Lookers Vauxhall Stadium with manager Jon McCarthy eager to retain the England C international.
But with the 22-year-old still to accept that deal and a number of League One and League Two clubs are now believed to be competing for his signature.
Chester's National League rivals Barrow AFC and Tranmere Rovers were rumoured to be interested but the chance to play in the Football League will be a big lure.
The Blues will be entitled to compensation for Heneghan as he is under the age of 24, although a tribunal will be required to determine how much unless the two clubs agree a fee.
His impending departure will not be a surprise to supporters or McCarthy given his excellent form for the Blues over the past two seasons.
The Chronicle understands McCarthy has lined up a centre back who played in the National League last season to replace Heneghan and held talks with an experienced Football League full-back with the futures of Johnny Hunt and Ryan Higgins still to be resolved.
Read: Ben Heneghan and nine other National League players who could make it in the Football League
Heneghan signed for Chester in August 2014 after impressing on trial having been released from Premier League side Stoke City.
He initially operated as a right-back before moving into his preferred central defensive position. He has made 92 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring seven goals.
